A man in Milton Keynes has been arrested today (16/12) in connection with terrorism offences.

A 23-year-old man from Bletchley was arrested on suspicion of being a member of a proscribed organisation, and on suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation, contrary to sections 11 and 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

The arrest was carried out by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) officers with support from the locally based Thames Valley Police. It’s been confirmed that this relates to membership and support of the terrorist group ISIL.

Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie, Thames Valley Police’s Local Command Unit Commander for Milton Keynes, said, “I appreciate arrests of this nature can cause some concern in the local area however this was a pre-planned operation and part of ongoing work carried out to keep our communities safe from the threat of terrorism.

“Search activity is ongoing at a residential property in Bletchley and so people living locally may notice an increased police presence while this takes place.

“If you have any concerns or information you think is relevant, please speak to an officer in the area.”

The arrested man is currently in police custody.